Cahaba River Key to Bibb County’s Future

By Cam Ward, State Representative, District 49

            Many communities throughout Alabama are blessed with a variety of treasures that make them special.  In north Alabama you have the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains and in Baldwin County you have the pristine beaches.  Everyone has something that draws visitors to their community. Bibb County has the Cahaba River.

            While there is a commonly held belief that the future of Bibb County’s economy lies in the growth of manufacturing jobs and heavy industry this is only partially correct. Jobs and industry are essential to a strong community base but tourism has the potential to move a community’s economy from average to outstanding with very little investment from the local and county government.  People might ask why tourism for Bibb County? The answer is simple: no where else in the world is there such a pristine, picturesque setting as the Cahaba River.

            There are more different species found per mile on the Cahaba than any other river of its comparable size. The high diversity of beautiful plant life above the water in Bibb County makes this river a real diamond in our community. With over 61 rare plant species in the Bibb County glades, it is safe to say that the Cahaba River and the glades located along it and its tributaries make up an extraordinary scene for residents and visitors alike. I could go on and on about the beauty of the river but you can also see a link to the Cahaba Lily on my website at www.camward.com. While many outside of Bibb County do not realize the wonder of this river, that is starting to change and when it does Bibb County will prosper as a result.

            The attention granted to Bibb County’s hidden treasure really took off when the Nature Conservancy partnered with Congressman Spencer Bachus to create the Cahaba Wildlife Refuge.  Since that time the national spotlight has started to shine just a little bit brighter on this wonderful river.  While the federal government is partnering with the private sector to protect and preserve the Cahaba, it is now time for the State of Alabama to step up to the plate and share this wonderful news with the rest of our residents.   

            I am determined to make sure our state government spends the resources and efforts necessary to show off this hidden marvel known as the Cahaba River.  While our efforts up to now have been small projects such as road signs, and small advertising monuments, I believe it is time to take the next step.  The Cahaba Wildlife Refuge needs to be included in all of our state’s tourism advertising and this area needs to be declared an endangered resource to merit special protection by the State of Alabama. We need to partner with the federal government not only in increasing the funding for the Cahaba River Basin but also make Alabama a partner in promoting, maintaining and expanding the area covered under the Cahaba Wildlife Refuge.